The Florida Marine Fisheries Enhancement Initiative Partners have submitted a comprehensive hatchery proposal to be considered as part of the upcoming federal economic stimulus package.  The package is being submitted to Governor Crist's office and to Florida's congressional delegation for support and approval, pending appropriation of Federal infrastructure dollars appropriated to Florida for stimulating the Florida economy.  Recreational saltwater fishing represents a $5 billion industry annually to the Florida economy.  39% of the recreational saltwater fishing in the US takes place in Florida and this demand has been growing at a project rate of 7% per year for the last 5 years.  While recreational saltwater fishing represents an important green growth industry for Florida, sustaining the habitat and components of the the recreational fishery are becoming increasingly more important.

The hatchery projects within the proposed stimulus package would construct 7 recreational marine hatcheries on the East and West Coasts, creating 3,129 immediate jobs and 169 permanent green jobs for Florida at a cost of $138 million.  An additional $10 million has been requested for critical fish habitat restoration for the Indian River Lagoon and Tampa Bay; an investment creating an additional 350 immediate green jobs for local communities.

State-wide angler and boater support has been strong and growing for the Initiative.  The Governor and elected state representatives will have the final decision-making authority in use of the Federal appropriations.  As the details of the economic stimulus package have been communicated, it is clear that supporters of enhancing Florida's marine fishery need to make their preferences known in Tallahassee and Washington, DC. Contact your elected state officials today and let them know that this is the right direction for Florida's marine fishery.

For more information please visit www.supportfloridasportfish.com.

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